University's energy efforts featured at 10th annual festival

By Diane BrownFacilities and Operations

U-M will showcase its commitment to energy conservation, efficiency and alternative technologies at the 10th annual Energy Fest Sept. 13-15.

University staff members and representatives of other affiliated organizations will be available with information and displays that will identify opportunities for the U-M community to conserve energy and contribute to a sustainable society.

Some efforts that will be showcased in the festival include recycling, environmental stewardship, bicycle registration, alternative transportation and two student programsthe Solar House Team and Solar Car Team.

The festival, which will include giveaways, quizzes and prizes, will begin 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sept. 13 on the Central Campus Diag. The musical group NoMo will perform from noon-1 p.m.

Activities move to North Campus Sept. 15 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Portico Plaza.

"Each year we continue to improve this successful awareness-building event," says Stephen Kunselman, festival coordinator and energy management liaison in the Plant Operations department. "We want to keep spreading the word and increasing interest among our students, faculty and staff about ways each person can help reduce energy use."

The festival, which is sponsored by the Center for Sustainable Systems of the School of Natural Resources & Environment, and Plant Operations, will include several non-campus organizations. They include Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (transportation and commuting options), city of Ann Arbor Energy Office (alternative fuels program), Ann Arbor District Library (sustainable building designMallet's Creek Branch Library), DTE (energy efficiency and renewable energy program) and Madison Electric Company (energy efficient lighting).